Balloon catheter with balloon shoulders

摘要

A balloon catheter and stent delivery system for medical treatment of a patient includes a balloon inflatable to an inflated shape having a cylindrical working portion, and a deflated shape having a pair of balloon shoulders adjacent the ends of the stent. The balloon in its deflated shape is temporarily reformed to enhance longitudinal retention of the stent while the catheter system is advanced or withdrawn. The balloon catheter provides for uniform expansion of the stent when the balloon is inflated. The present invention also protects the leading or distal end of the stent during advancement, and protects the proximal end of the stent during any withdrawal of the catheter system.